TEMPO Magazine March 2013 Issue by BrandMoxie

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THE TENTH PLANET - DIGITAL WINDOW TO YOUR UNIVERSE

MARCH 2013

THE FIRST MAGAZINE IN THE REGION TO USE MOBILE TAGGING THE WIDEST CIRCULATED YOUTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUSED MAGAZINE IN THE UAE

HAPPY HAMDOON THE MAN BEHIND THE BOY PG 14

PLUS+ SHOOTING STAR THE COLOUR OF NOW SHINE LIKE A DIAMOND THE JOY OF THE WRITTEN WORD

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06 notes & cyberchatter 07 uspace 08 what’s hot 09 shine like a diamond 10 tempo’s top 10 songs / what's on your ipod 11 game hedz / tech talk 12 my style blueprint 13 what’s in your bag 14 cover story: happy hamdoon 16 youth talk 17 people calendar 18 the joy of the written word 21 time capsule 22 shooting star 25 doc in the house / remixing rumi 26 tamakkan 27 the planetarians 28 media 29 horoscope 30 the colour of now

Change is good, they say. But at Tempo we believe change is exciting and necessary! The publishing industry is transforming our lives completely as people go online for information, entertainment, community and shopping. Tempo magazine has from the day it launched in October 2009 been blessed by an amazing following - of readers and contributors. It continues to celebrate those who create and build, and champion those who strive to make a difference. We've been distributing 40,000 copies of Tempo through malls, coffee shops, universities and schools, but we've also been a victim of our success: running out of copies before the end of each month. Under great pressure to increase our print run, we have decided to take a more responsible, meaningful and dynamic route: we have taken our expansion online, with the launch of www.tempoplanet.com! Feedback has been incredible - our readers love it. Tempo stories are now being viewed by the entire 'planet'....and while before we were getting feedback mostly from Dubai, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, we are now also getting comments from as far away as Brazil, Egypt and Korea! Yes, we will continue to print and distribute Tempo as before, but now you can also reach us easily online through your PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Embrace the future, cherish The Planet.

Sana Bagersh Managing Editor bagersh@tempoplanet.com

MANAGING EDITOR Sana Bagersh

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Ahmed Samir

FEATURES EDITOR Dr. Alma Kadragic

Ayman Bukair

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Ajir Shujahi

MARKETING DIRECTOR Manjul Abhishek DESIGN & LAYOUT Mark De Castro

Azza El Masri Blakniss Dorian ‘Paul D’ Rogers Dr. DMS Emma Kirkman Ian Mason

PHOTOGRAPHER Angeli Castillo

James Lloyd

DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Melaku Muluneh

Saif Nasir Shahid Saeed

DESIGN BY }

ADDRESS To reach editorial at Abu Dhabi Tempo email: editorial@tempoplanet.com. If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: 02 491 8624/25 or check out the list of Tempo distribution points on our website.

download www.gettag.mobi to your smart phone run application click on tag beside each article to have fun with online content, videos & cool tags!

NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisers can request brand tagging with all advertisements. To reach advertising call: 02 491 8624/25, fax: 02 491 8626 email: advertising@tempoplanet.com DISCLAIMER Tempo Magazine does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors, mistakes and inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher. MEDIA LICENCE NO. 1/105866/24295

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Azza E.@aetheawesome The new @AbuDhabiTempo site is up and running! And it's gorgeous! Take a look: www.tempoplanet.com

Great to see such motivational people involved in helping and inspiring children of the community! (on Henry Bennett feature) -Lara Alan

Hey guys, Love the new website format – big up Tempo !! -Craig Young Thank you for the review of a popular basic staple of the subcontinent. It is reviews on foods like this that makes Tempo special. Now I got to get me some DOSA! -Sara Salam

DO YOU HAVE A BIZ SUCH AS A COFFEE SHOP, CAFÉ, HOTEL ETC THAT CATERS TO THE TEMPO CROWD (THE COOL 18-35, UPWARDLY MOBILE DEMOGRAPHIC)? IF SO, YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR A TEMPO STAND. CALL US ON 02 491 8624 TO FIND OUT MORE!

I am intrigued! An Emirati paper quiller. My grandmother used to do this a long time ago, now I come here to UAE and a young girl is paper quilling!! Wow – I feel like taking up quilling. -Angela Joy

FUN FACT The longest published word in the English language is 1909 letters long and it refers to a distinct part of DNA.

Name ten body parts which have only three letters. Answer: Eye, ear, lip, jaw, leg, arm, gum, toe, hip, rib

M Al Shamsi @ MajedAlShamsi @ AbuDhabiTempo Thank you for the continuous support!

RESULT OF LAST MONTH’S VOTE:

Tempo asked if you could construct the perfect Valentine’s date, what would be her/his overriding quality?

71.5%

INTELLIGENT

14.5%

ATTRACTIVE

14.0%

FUNNY

THIS MONTH’S QUESTION: Do you believe the Oscars this year represented international themes adequately?

1. YES 2. NO

TO VOTE GO TO tempoplanet.com

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TALKING BOOKS By Azza El Masri

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LANGUAGE QUIRKS

TEN FOREIGN WORDS THAT DON’T TRANSLATE SO WELL INTO ENGLISH By Ayman Bukair

By Gemma Elwin Harris Faber and Faber, 2012

Pizan Zapra (Malay) Def.> The time it takes to eat a banana.

As a child, did you have the tendency to ask a lot of questions which your parents couldn’t answer? Are you still looking for these answers? Search no more because Gemma Elwin Harris is here to set many a mind to rest.

Schadenfreude (German) Def.> Pleasure resulting from someone’s pain or misfortune. Gigil (Filipino) Def.> The urge to pinch or squeeze something cute. Bakku Shan (Japanese) Def.> A girl who appears to be pretty from behind but is not from the front. Pena Ajena (Mexican Spanish) Def.> The embarrassment you feel watching someone else's humiliation

BIG QUESTION FROM LITTLE PEOPLE ANSWERED BY SOME VERY BIG PEOPLE

WATCH THE VIDEO

Waldeinsamkeit (German) Def.> The feeling of being alone in the woods Jayus (Indonesian) Def.> The awkward humor behind a joke delivered so badly that you can't help but laugh Age-otori (Japanese) Def.> Looking worse after a haircut than before. L’esprit de l’escalier (French) Def.> The feeling you get when you think of a smart repartee but its too late. Backpfeifengesicht (German) Def.> A face that cries for a fist. Can you think of any Arabic words that don’t translate well into English? Send them to editorial@tempoplanet.com

Children between the ages of four and twelve from primary schools around England asked a hundred questions that almost every parent has trouble answering. With the aid of the NSPCC (the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) and Gemma Elwin Harris, scientists, authors, philosophers and more helped answer these questions to benefit the child, the parent and everyone in between. Some quirky, some charming and some very deep, these questions will shed new light on many of life’s idiosyncracies, thanks to specialists like Noam Chomsky, Alain de Bottom, Gordon Ramsay to name a few. If you want to know the answer to questions like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Where do the oceans come from?” then this compilation will satisfy your curiosity (it satisfied mine!) and will be a great gift to an inquisitive child. Funny, educational and straightforward, this book is simply a great read. Who cares about your age? Indeed, I’ve spotted a couple college students carrying a copy, so I got one too! This book made me laugh, but it made me a bit sad, and it made me think about the universe: in its great and wonderful vastness.

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YOUR GUIDE TO THIS MONTHS’ HOTTEST EVENTS

GULF PHOTO PLUS 2013 March 1 – March 8 Conference Centre, Dubai Knowledge Village The region's biggest photography festival brings the world's best photographers and instructors to Dubai to share their knowledge and experience with the Middle East and Africa's professional and amateur photography community. Alongside the workshops at GPP2013 will be lots of other special events and activities. For more details, visit www.gulfphotoplus.com

ZAYED SPORTS CITY 5K AND 10K RUN March 8 Haddins Gym – Zayed Sports City THE STORY OF A FORT, LEGACY OF A NATION Up to March 9 Qasr Al Hosn Forty - Abu Dhabi ‘Story of a Fort, Legacy of a Nation’ is a rich visual poem celebrating over 250 years of Emirati history and offering an unforgettable combination of music, performance and special effects. Franco Dragone, the world famous Artistic Director, best known for producing ‘Celine Dion, A New Day’, ‘Le Rêve’ and most recently ‘The House of Dancing Water,’ had been commissioned to create a unique show that brings the history of the Emirati people to life. In addition to using an international cast filled with dancers, acrobats and gymnasts, Franco Dragone welcomes a select group of Emirati performers to take part in this once in a lifetime showcase.

The ZSC 5K and 10K Runs are presented by Zayed Sports City and the Abu Dhabi Striders as a way to encourage all runners to get out and get fit. The three race series allows runners the opportunity to track their improvement throughout the year on a course through the grounds of Zayed Sports City, including inside of the main stadium. Breakfast in the clubhouse immediately follows the race. For more details, visit www.premiermarathons.com

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN OF FITNESS March 8 Al Bateen Secondary School Abu Dhabi Under the patronage of General Women’s Union, Inspire Sports Management presents Inspirational Women of Fitness on the occasion of International Women’s Day on Friday, 8th March, 2013. Laila Ali, four-time World Boxing Champion, and fitness and wellness expert will be the guest of honour at the event. For more details, visit www.inspiresports.ae

For more details, visit www.QasrAlHosnFestival.ae ABU DHABI ELECTRONICS SHOPPER March 14 – March 18 ADNEC and Atrium Hall Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper 2013 (ADEShopper 2013) touts itself as Abu Dhabi’s biggest ever consumer exhibition and sale. The organizer states that a large number of electronic retailers and world class brands are participating, as a way to tap into Abu Dhabi’s consumer electronics market. With exclusive show offers, bundled deals, exciting competitions and launches of the latest technology products, the show promises to deliver an exciting shopping experience for all its visitors. ADEShopper 2013 will showcase the hottest gadgets in the electronics world. For more details, visit www.adeshopper.ae 08 | www.tempoplanet.com

INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY AND WATCH SHOW 2013 March 14 – March 18 ADNEC, Abu Dhabi JWS is an exhibition with an extensive showcase of exquisite jewellery and timepieces from all over the world, and is aimed at the region’s affluent consumers. For more details see Tempo’s special feature on the event by Ian Mason and visit www.jws.ae

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Azza Al Qubaisi, artist

Pendant designs by Azza

Rings designed by Azza

SHINE LIKE A DIAMOND DESIGN

By Ian Mason

INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY AND WATCH SHOW INTRODUCES NEW EMIRATI DESIGN AWARD The International Jewellery and Watch Show (JWS) will mark its 21st edition this 14 – 18 March 2013 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This year JWS will be co-located with the Luxury Gift Show and, for the first time, will feature the EBDA’A Emirati Jewellery Design Award. Tempo spoke with one of the judges, leading Emirati jewellery artist Azza Al Qubaisi, about the EBDA’A AWARD 2013. THE EBDA’A AWARD 2013 IS AN EXCITING INITIATIVE BY JWS TO ENCOURAGE NEW TALENT IN THE JEWELLERY DESIGN INDUSTRY. WHAT IS THE VISION OF THE AWARD? The EBDA’A AWARD 2013 is the first step to further promote the capability of the Emirati jewellery market in the region. Our ultimate vision is to support the development of Emirati jewellery designers by showcasing the work of winning designers every year at JWS and offering potential buyers the chance to view the exclusive work of talented new designers.

WHY IS THE AWARD IMPORTANT? It will build the foundation for the local jewellery industry, helping to promote Emirati designs in the region and cater for visitors to the country who seek unique local designs that capture the UAE story, feelings and heritage. It is also a great opportunity for emerging designers and artists, especially jewellery design students, to showcase their creations to a panel of judges and receive feedback on their work. WHY DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THE EBDA’A AWARD 2013? Jewellery is my life, my passion and my business, and I want to share this with a new generation of Emiratis who are as inspired by their culture as I am. It is very important to have a creative outlet for talented designers and I am confident that we will unearth some amazing new design concepts through the EBDA’A AWARD 2013. WHAT ARE THE CATEGORIES OF THE AWARD? We have a category for daywear and casual jewellery, which is open to UAE nationals and residents. There is also an evening wear category for UAE nationals only as well as a category for contemporary interpretation of traditional jewellery which is also only open for UAE nationals. People visiting JWS will be able to view the winning designs.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY AND WATCH SHOW? The fact that it’s about jewellery, of course! But seriously, it is very pleasing that so many exhibitors from the GGC region, more than a third of them from the UAE, are coming to Abu Dhabi for the International Jewellery and Watch Show. This shows the strength of the jewellery design industry in the Middle East, and we can expect many of the items to reflect the local culture, using locally sourced metals and stones including pearls which are so much part of our regional heritage.

ABOUT JWS More than 130 exhibitors from over 20 countries will display the latest jewellery and watch designs made from gold, silver, diamonds and other precious metals and stones. New for 2013 is the Luxury Gift Show, which specializes in extravagant and innovative designer products, objects and concepts for personal use, special occasions and the home. Opening hours: 4:00pm – 10:00pm For more information about JWS 2013, visit www.jws.ae

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MUSIC

View the #1 song in the UAE

TEMPO’S MUSIC CHART LETS YOU DISCOVER THE LATEST TOP 10 SONGS IN THE EMIRATE.

WHEN I WAS YOUR MAN BRUNO MARS

SUIT AND TIE (FEAT JAY Z) JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

HARLEM SHAKE

1 LAMA DAQQA, a 21 year old fresh graduate feels music is a must in her life.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

BAAUER

LITTLE THINGS

ONE DIRECTION

I KNEW YOU WERE TROUBLE TAYLOR SWIFT

DIAMONDS

5 6

RIHANNA

LOCKED OUT OF HEAVEN BRUNO MARS

HO HEY

Somebody that I used to know One more night Too close Beneath your beautiful Blow me one last kiss As long as you love me I knew you were trouble Ho hey Sweet nothing 6 degrees of separation

7 8

THE LUMINEERS

IMPOSSIBLE

JAMES ARTHUR

PLEASE DON’T SAY YOU LOVE ME GABRIELLE APLIN

One way or Another (Teenage Kicks) – One Direction

Harlem Shake – Baauer

When I Was Your Man – Bruno Mars

I Could be the One (Nicktim Radio Edit) – Avicii and Nicky Romero

Suit and Tie (feat. JAY Z) – Justin Timberlake

When I Was Your Man – Bruno Mars

Ho Hey – The Lumineers

White Noise (feat. AlunaGoerge) - Disclosure

I Knew You Were Trouble – Taylor Swift

Please Don’t Say You Love Me – Gabrielle Aplin

Locked Out of Heaven – Bruno Mars

Drinking from the Bottle (feat. Tinie Tempah) – Valvin Harris

Daylight – Maroon 5

Clown – Emeli Sande

I Will Wait – Mumford & Sons

Suit and Tie (feat. JAY Z) – Justin Timberlake

10. Carry on – Fun

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10. I Knew You Were Trouble – Taylor Swift

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game hedz

tech talk

Blakniss | Original game head from Atari to XBox!

Shahid Saeed | Talker for the Non-Techies

SAMSUNG GALAXY GRAND DUOS Samsung is busy in trying their best to deliver what people need; the new Galaxy Grand Duos a high-end dual-SIM smartphone which is well designed looks clone of Note II and finish of SIII. It has a dual-core Coretex-A9 1.2 GHz CPU, 1GB RAM, 8 GB Internal Storage, 480 X 800 5-inch Standard TFT LCD display, 8 MP rear-facing camera accompanied by LED Flash, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean along with TouchWiz. The phone is a Quad Band GSM with tri-band 3G support, you also get dual band Wi-Fi with hotspot capability and Wi-Fi Direct. It also has GPS with AGPS support and GLONASS, DLNA, Bluetooth 4.0 external storage up-to 64GB, Dual SIM card. Grand Duos is priced at Dh 1499 at all major mobile retailers in the UAE.

FOOSBALL GOES DIGITAL WITH QUIRKAT Friends of Game Hedz, Quirkat, one of the region’s premiere local game developers, have a new joint: Pro Foosball. Yes, no more clunky tables taking up space in your den or office place. You can take out work frustrations digitally - and it doesn’t have to be on Facebook, and no more lost Foosball balls. A downloadable game on the Playstation Network (PSN), Pro Foosball is exactly what it says on the can: a Foosball table very nicely replicated and located in a series of environments suitable for Foosball playing, or where you’ve always dreamed of playing Foosball. With three modes of play you and three friends can rock it out multiplayer style. You can challenge the AI and the mode I really love is Foos Madness (anything with ‘madness’ in the title has got to be good). Foos Madness lets you play in multiplicity of crazy and cool scenarios including zero gravity, uneven surfaces and with a magnetic ball. Keep an eye out for it. Otherwise, this is the month Gears of War Judgment, Tomb Raider, God of War: Ascension and BioShock Infinite should be colliding with your gaming console and/or frontal lobe. Make it so.

MY FAV APP } SHERILAL MOHANAN

CAMERA+ Are you a passionate photographer who likes to take pictures using your mobile phone? Now you can shoot like a pro, with camera+ using your iPhone. The app is packed with many useful features that your standard camera app doesn’t have including touch exposure and focus, a range of shooting modes, a photo flashlight, grid view and digital zoom. The app is available for both iPhone & iPad and the price is just US $ 0.99.

CANON IXUS 510 HS The Canon IXUS 510 HS is one of the best looking compact cameras; this camera is smaller than a pack of cards or cigarette box. Image resolution is 10.1 megapixels with 12x optical zoom, which is approx. 28-336mm in a 35 camera at f/3.4 to f/5.6, and it has 3.2-inch screen, and speed ranging from1/4,00 to 15 seconds. Surprisingly the camera has in-built Wi-Fi and can also record videos 1920 x 1080 at 24 frames per second and 1280 x 720 at 30 frames per second. The IXUS 510 HS is great little camera, available for sale at Carrefour UAE with the price tag of Dh 999 which includes camera + 4Gb memory card and camera case.

NEWS & GOSSIP LINKEDIN REWARD EMPLOYEES WITH IPAD MINIS Linkedin employees really felt the love when rewarded hours before Valentine’s Day with the iPad Mini. Chief Executive Jeff Weiner surprised the 3,458 full time employees at an all-hands meeting and revealed that they were all getting iPad Minis. Krista Canfield Senior Manager for Corporate Communications confirms the giveaway and said “We wanted to acknowledge the hard work and accomplishments of all of our employees in 2012”. MORE THAN A WATCH According to a report in The New York Times, Apple is developing a smart watch “iWatch” that would run on the same IOS operating system that powers iPhones, iPads and iPods. There are many rumours about the functionality of iWatch like chat-feature Facetime, turn by turn directions spoken by Siri, Apple’s “voice assistant”, Bluetooth connective with iPhone, iPad or iPod to access phone Follow me on data and much more. @shahidaasi

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www.tempoplanet.com | 11

ENGLISH AGE: 24 MUSICIAN

JOSEF HOLMES FASHION STATEMENT:

"I’M NOT MAKING ONE" > YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IN LESS THAN 10 WORDS: Somewhere between indie, mod, 60’s and sporty! > WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE STORE IN THE UAE: I tend to head to the malls for the usual things, but Central Market in Abu Dhabi has a great atmosphere and some really interesting shops. > DOES THE UAE HAVE STYLE? It may be work in progress, but it certainly does and I like it! > FASHION PET HATES? I think it looks ridiculous when people go out at night wearing sunglasses! < Angeli Castillo 12 | www.tempoplanet.com

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ABU DHABI EDITION

MOHAMMED KHAIR M. KOURMA SYRIAN, 22 | SCUBA DIVER

< Angeli Castillo To view more, please visit angelicastillophotography.wordpress.com

HAPPY HAMDOON:

THE TALENTED MAN BEHIND THE SUPERSTAR BOY By James Lloyd

Abdulla Al Sharhan story begins with a little boy, fascinated by art and eager to express his creativity. Now the 31-year-old from Ras al Khaimah with a passion for drawing and cartoons has a career that has taken him to unexpected directions...

interest grew. Abdullah says, “I felt that the majority of people do not visit art galleries. On the other hand, I was more into art that people could bring home. I wanted to be a true nation artist, but I had to figure out how.” Abdulla’s answer came while he was in the United Kingdom in 1998. “I was at a bookstore looking for art books when I came across a book that taught animation. Since then there was no going back for me.”

Initially, Abdullah thought that there would be no market for his skills. So he opted for a safety net and studied Management Information Systems at UAE University. He then worked in a variety of advertising to employee relations positions in private and public companies.

Driven by his passion, Abdullah is now a full time artist and creative director. His most famous creation is Hamdoon, the impishly adorable young Emirati character that is the star of the popular cartoon series.

However, through all the years he always maintained his passion for art. Through attending and participating in galleries, his

Abdullah says, “Hamdoon was originally a nameless boy that I sketched based on a request from a client who wanted to use it in his own

14 | www.tempoplanet.com

personal website about poetry. I was so excited about the project that I sketched and coloured the artwork without agreeing on a price. In the end, the client didn’t agree to my price so I uploaded Hamdoon to my portfolio on my website.” From that point on, Hamdan was copied, printed, pasted and his image can be seen on everything from car bumper stickers to school bags. All of course without Abdullah’s permission or licencing consent. For Abdullah this was further validation of the popularity of Hamdoon the character, and the need to develop him into a full fledged cartoon series. Abdullah now runs Aiyaal Media, in association with twofour54; which specializes in creative content development for youth, kids and teenagers, such as animation, publishing and music. He has also worked on various projects where he illustrated books for children.

> ABDULLAH'S INSPIRATION Abdullah says that his inspiration comes from the people around him. He says, “I love observing facial expressions of people from different part of the worlds, particularly, kids and elderly people.” He is also inspired by landscapes and spends a lot of time travelling to places that have ancient ruins and picturesque sights.

Abdulla Al Sharhan and team reviewing some drawings

Abdulla Al Sharhan sketching a character

Abdulla Al Sharhan directing Hamdoon

> HIS ARTISTIC PROCESS When creating a character, Abdullah uses his own process to understand how a character will take shape. He first determines where the character will be used, whether for a feature film, television, a comic or a video game. “This is important because it will define a huge part of the style and the sophistication level of the character. Then I define the target audience and do a lot of research on trending characters,” says Abdullah. Once the concept of the character has been decided on, the artistic process begins. “I do quick sketches in different styles, then I engage my friends and coworkers and even the client to help me decide which option they love the most.” > HIS FUTURE PLANS Abdullah is at something of a crossroads. Having produced so many successful projects, he now has many options on the table; both involving his own creations and projects that have been offered to him. While he is taking a moment to consider his choices his determination remains. “Once one of these projects gets a green light, I will commit to it and put the rest on hold,” says Sharhan. Above all, Abdullah wants to continue inspiring generations. He advises young artists to understand their audience so that their creativity is not unleashed in the wrong direction, and to build experience and develop skills before embarking on a project alone. “Last but not least, keep moving no matter what, because often you will find the most creative people among those with the most limited resources.”

QUICK QUESTIONS: What’s the weirdest position you’ve ever been put in? Freelancing for Greetunes Does Hamdoon have a love interest? There is one, yes! But you’re going to have to find out soon in the coming seasons. Craziest thing you've gotten in trouble for? I got called back by the grocer of the shop as a child because he found out that I had stolen a pack of cartoon cards... Only because I thought he had stolen my money first! If you were stuck on an island and you had three things, what would they be? Phone and charger, food and water, aaa this is really hard .. pencil and paper? If you were a juice box what flavor would you be? Mixed Cherry Flavor

“I LOVE OBSERVING FACIAL EXPRESSIONS OF PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT PART OF THE WORLDS, PARTICULARLY, KIDS AND ELDERLY PEOPLE.” www.tempoplanet.com | 15

MISSING LINKS

HOW I SEE CHANGE

By Ahmed Samir

By Saif Nasir

I miss a lot of things. I miss paying attention to small things, the way only a child can. I miss sleeping in one of my two pyjamas with pictures of airplanes printed on the chest (a green helicopter and black fighter jet), and pretending to pilot them before I sleep. Lying in bed allowed me to imagine the tight cocoon of my cover around me as the cockpit, albeit one that is horizontal, but that’s only because it was so sophisticated.

The change of one’s self or image, not just with people, but also with my surroundings, has always intrigued me. It’s rather odd in a way, and I find it oddly entertaining. Change and transformation sparks my mind. I want to try to capture it; whether to have it engrained in my memory to be later sketched, or written on a paper or photograph (stored with last Christmas’s gift). Many times people try to make it a point to show change has no relevance, but to me it offers hope. It’s hope that no matter how miniscule, or immense, change delivers! For instance a bad day can change into a good one. The night’s black shade withers away with the gush of yellow sunlight. Even a fault toward a friend, can be undone, and forgiven.

I miss noticing the patterns in tiles, and skipping from white one to white one, and feeling genuine disappointment when the pattern had to be deserted, because the pattern has changed (and nothing can be done about that), or my legs aren’t long enough to reach the next acceptable tile. I miss monitoring my teachers’ toilet-going habits, and, as ridiculous as it was, thinking to myself, “Wow, they’re humans too.” I miss the things I remembered, and the things I didn’t deign to. I miss remembering that Voltron was on at 1 pm on Friday, and how missing that was as unforgivable, and other things of equally unimportance. I miss watching the spiders in fifth grade, and carrying them around in emptied water bottles, and picking them up in my hands, and feeling the accomplishment counterbalanced by fear that “they’re poisonous” or “they’ll crawl inside your body if they find an opening”—and I miss how credulous I was, and how that last especially was believable. I miss understanding things. The day I found out about the nature of procreation, it was physical education class, and we were separated into lines of mildly interested ten-year-olds doing jumping exercises. A precocious “friend,” designated so because he wasn’t much of one yet and would never graduate to my roughly defined definition of friendship, explained to me about male and female organs. I remember feeling incredulous, and for about a year I remained extremely skeptical. It seemed too barbaric, certainly something unbefitting of the joyous fulfillment spoken of it. Time has, naturally, erased every shred of the incredulity: I learned that both are true. I miss the time when I didn’t know that childhood would end and I’d want to write it a nostalgic love letter to growing up. 16 | www.tempoplanet.com

Reading this people would probably think I’m some optimist but I’m not. I’d say I’m more a realist. I always realize the depth and magnitude of a bad situation, and it does affect me at times. I personally experienced this in my family: cancer with two of my grandparent and aunt, early deaths by accidents, and more. I have also lost some friends. During my studies, I was unable to get along with the others, as they refused to accept that I had different beliefs. All this turned around. My grandfather survived cancer. Twice. So did my other grandfather. My aunt is alive and well. I found friends that are like family to me, and I’m brought to tears when I remember all the amazingly extraordinary things they’ve done for me. And soon, I’m transferring to my dream university. The way I see it you can’t really enjoy the good in life, without experiencing the bad.

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MARCH

Industry Night @ XL Beach Club, Dubai

Abu Dhabi Air Expo @ Al Bateen Executive Airport 5-7

Alfred Hitchcock Day

6 The “Story of a Fort, Legacy of a Nation” Show @ Qasr Al Hosn Forty, Abu Dhabi 28-9

13 CABSAT @ World Trade Centre, Dubai 12-14

20 Plácido at the Palace @ Emirates Palace Auditorium, Abu Dhabi

27 AGRA Middle East @ Dubair International Exhibition Centre 26-28

Paperworld Middle East 2013 @ Dubai 5-7

14 Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper @ ADNEC Abu Dhabi 14-18

Tommy Tiernan Live @ Dubai Tennis Stadium, Dubai

Spring Show @ ADNEC 28-6

Reaching you family fun day @ Zabeel Park, Dubai

Dubai International Boat Show @ Dubai International Marine Club

Jebel Ali Resort Sprint Triathlon @ Dubai

Gilberto Gil in Concert @ Emirates Palace Auditorium, Abu Dhabi

Taste of Dubai @ Dubai Media City Amphitheatre 14-16

UAE Jet Ski Championship @ Breakwater Abu Dhabi

International Women’s Day

International Jewellery & Watch Show, Abu Dhabi 14-18

Hamed Nikpay Live in Dubai @ World Trade Centre

Joshua Bell and The Czech Philharmonic @ Emirates Palace Auditorium Abu Dhabi

Jonita Balawen

International IT Conference @ Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hotel Abu Dhabi 31-1

10 DUPHAT @ Dubai 10-12

Annual Oil & Gas Summit @ Abu Dhabi 26-27

Al Ain Spring Fair @ Al Ain Convention Centre, Al Khabaisi Hall 3-24

Mariam Abassi

Health & Fitness Fun Day @ ADNEC, Abu Dhabi 3-4

AR AB LA B 10- @ Du 13 bai

TRENCHLESS MIDDLE EAST @ Jumeirah Beach Exhibition Centre Dubai

Abu Dhabi China Consumer Products Fair @ ADNEC 17-19

25 The Rahbani Legacy @ Emirates Palace Auditorium Abu Dhabi

Piano Passion Yundi in Recital @ Emirates Palace Auditorium Abu Dhabi

Zeeshan Razzaqi

Amin

Jody Ballard with the cover of her new book The Smell of Mud

THE JOY OF THE WRITTEN WORD: BOOK

INTRODUCING JODY BALLARD

By Ahmed Samir

Jody Ballard is well known in the local community for her great energy and her many talents: mother, wife, therapist, artist, writer and more. Tempo sat down with her for a heart to heart conversation on her passion for writing… TELL US THE STORY OF JODY BALLARD Moving here was entering a new section of the ‘life’s library.’ It is an understatement to say I am inquisitive and that I love to learn. I am also fascinated by human nature. I was raised by a Montana cowboy, so naturally I ride horses and remain passionate about the connection between man to his environment. I am a very happily married woman of 32 years and the mother of three happy, intelligent, curious, talented and loving children. I try to stay focused of all aspects of my personal wellness. I am frequently introduced to friends 18 | www.tempoplanet.com

as an artist/writer/psychologist with a tennis problem: I play tennis 2-3 days a week and adore the game. I have a very curious mind (yes I am sure we could use a double entendre here) that seeks out answers even to the most bizarre of questions. Currently I am educating myself about the GCC — everything and anything; language, culture, history, birds, pearl diving, local foods, Islam in comparison with other religions… YOU WRITE — WHY? I write because I am a storyteller. I hope to entertain and to offer what might be thought provoking ideas for readers to consider. I write because fear does not stop me from writing, as it stops many people who have a story to tell. I write because I can. THEY SAY THE BEST ADVICE FOR WRITERS IS TO READ. WHAT DO YOU READ? My hunger to read is insatiable. I believe this comes from a thirst for knowledge and my

need to learn, to be provoked, and to look at the world from different perspectives. Therefore, I read novels (my favorite genre is historical novels), psychological journals, foreign policy magazines, cartoons, travel journals. I normally have two or three things I am reading at a time. WHERE DO YOU DRAW INSPIRATION FROM? I draw inspiration from life. I pay attention to people, interactions, nature, everything around me. All these things inform and inspire me. I listen intently to the stories of others, I find people fascinating and try to make my characters as intriguing to readers. WHAT IS YOUR WRITING PROCESS LIKE? I believe the research process of writing a novel is what started me on the path of writing. I love the research and had to stop myself at a certain point and begin to write. I am not a schooled creative writer so the learning curve on the science of this process has been straight up. I

JODY INTRODUCES HER LATEST BOOK “THE SMELL OF MUD:” “[I]n 1892 The Sherman Act was repealed by an act of congress. This stopped the subsidy of silver and caused the price of silver to plummet. In Granite Montana which is located three miles from where I call home, a thriving town of 3000 emptied in a matter of weeks. This provided a moment when everyone fighting for survival had an opportunity to change their lives. When forced into prostitution by tragic events or trafficking, people were forced to make life altering decisions quickly.

From L to R: Paulette Hime, Jody Ballard and Jim

How were these women able to stand back up when having fallen to the lowest place a woman can go. The story is essentially told from the diaries of the House Madam and the nice twist to the story is the voice of a contemporary 16 year old who is coming of age and the diaries filled with colorful stories and references help her frame her own relationships and sexuality.” From L to R: Alysia Stanton, Jody Ballard and Tom

have to force myself to sit down and begin to write; it becomes a hypnotic process and I enjoy every minute. Once I begin and my mind is carried to another place, the sun can set, my husband can enter and leave the room many times, my phone rings and I hear it only in the distance — I am internally focused. SO IT COMES DOWN TO DISCIPLINE? Indeed. I write five days a week with a writer companion Seumas Gallacher in the lobby of the Beach Rotana. We meet and write daily for two hours, often discussing themes, character development, language, and practical issues such as marketing, fonts, distributions. It is a gift to have support in this process. We have welcomed many local authors to our corner and we gain insight and inspiration from them all. TELL US ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING BOOKS My first book will focus on the legacy of an Emirati Grandfather. This is fascinating to me. I hope to use personal interviews. This book is

inspired by Nabati poetry, the novels, The Age of Endurance and Rags to Riches, and the beauty of this country. I knew that in writing this book, I would be further educated about the UAE. The second book will focus on a marriage which is being torn apart by infidelity; the question broached is: "Can a marriage survive infidelity?" We will watch a woman grapple with this question. I plan to write this book from her POV and the clinical notes of her therapist. Lucky me, I have worked this issue with couples for 30 years. THE QUINTESSENTIAL OBLIGATORY QUESTION: ANY ADVICE FOR ASPIRING WRITERS?

JUST WRITE. EVERY DAY, AND ABOUT ANYTHING. WRITING IS A SKILL REQUIRING DISCIPLINE, PRACTICE AND COURAGE.

AN EXCERPT FROM “THE SMELL OF MUD”: Today is Sunday, our only day of rest and all the young women in my house are sound asleep. They have become the joy of my life and the main focus of my efforts and energy. I love walking around the house, checking each room not as much for safety, but to gaze upon the innocence of their faces in sleep. They are all still children in their deepest slumber, hugging pillows, tucking hands between their legs for comfort or snuggling their cheeks into the cooler part of the mattress. Safe and secure, their bellies rise and fall slowly with deep breaths completely emptied of the weight and tensions of their lives. Their faces imbued with tranquility are void of sadness or fear.” “The Smell of Mud” can be downloaded from Amazon.com.

www.tempoplanet.com | 19

ABOUT ME

LIFE

MUSIC

FOOD

TRAVEL

Christine Sheryl Sanchez Age: 20 Profession: Student Nationality: Filipino Motto: "Never leave until

tomorrow what you can do or experience today." -Like the Flowing River, Paulo Coelho

BASIC INFORMATIONS Your most valued possession: My family and friends One thing you cannot live without: Family and friends The person who inspires you the most: My mother Five things you need for survival: Food, water, shelter, clothing, books What car would you like to own? A ford f-150 or a hummer h2 Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a successful and happy person What is your idea of peace? End of hatred and the beginning of love What item do you keep buying even though you have plenty? Food and clothes! What random acts of kindness have you most performed? Giving my seat on the bus to old people and pregnant women Three things today have taught you to improve on tomorrow? Faith, humility, and perseverance

What random acts of kindness have you most performed? Giving my seat on the bus to old people and pregnant women. The songs that you would want played on your funeral: River Flows In You by Yiruma, If I Die Young by The Band Perry, This Side by Nickel Creek. If your life were made into a book or perhaps a movie, what would you call it? Growing Up: Third Culture. Three things today have taught you to improve on tomorrow? Faith, humility, and perseverance.

What’s your current Last SONG syndrome (LSS)? Troublemaker by Olly Murs ft. Flo Rida. What was the most recent movie that made you cry? Les Misérables. If today is the last day, where would you rush to go? I would rush to wherever my family is. What is your idea of a perfect weekend? My idea of a perfect weekend would be spending the day at the beach with my friends. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be? What would you be doing there? Right now, I think it'd be nice to be sitting in a café in Paris or exploring the Venetian waters in a gondola. If you could ask one person from history a question whom would that be, and what would be the question? I would like to meet Francois Rabelais and ask him what he meant by the Great Perhaps. If you were on death row, what would your last meal be? Chicken shawarma, kebabs, lamb chops, and hummus.

IF YOU COULD HAVE PERSONALLY WITNESSED ONE EVENT IN HISTORY, WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO HAVE SEEN? I would like to have witnessed how the Taj Mahal was built

TO ADVERTISE IN THE WIDEST CIRCULATED YOUTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUSED MAGAZINE IN THE UAE, CALL: 02 491 8624

www.tempoplanet.com | 21

SHOOTING STAR: MUSIC

EMIRATI SINGER MUNEER

By Ajir Shujahi

It is not every day that one meets local talent that is totally homegrown and on a trajectory to stardom. Muneer is an ambitious writer-performer who has set his eyes on big thing. Tempo caught up with himâ&#x20AC;Ś TEMPO: Tell us about Muneer. MUNEER: I am a 28 yrs old singer with an Emirati father and Indian mother. I went to Romania to study medicine but soon found another passion. I finished medical school in 2011 November, but I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t practice medicine because I have decided to embrace my real passion, which is music. It started in a karaoke bar where I used to go and scream my head off. Gradually I became more serious about singing. I started by doing covers on YouTube. Soon things started going uphill from there. I began singing in bars and clubs with my live cover band in Timisoara, Romania.

22 | www.tempoplanet.com

TEMPO:

ANY ADVICE FOR ASPIRING SINGERS?

Excerpt from: “TURN OFF THE LIGHT” Muneer, feat. Kaan I was looking for love and devotion I was looking for that kind of love (that kind of love) Somebody who can answer my missed calls Who can be there for me when the night falls

Before anybody believes in you, you have got to believe in yourself and to remember where you came from. Do everything with honesty and never give up no matter what happens. And most important, take care of your vocals :) MUNEER

WATCH THE VIDEO

Luck came calling in the form of "Romania's Got Talent". Participating was all the motivation I needed as an artist to seriously pursue my dream. The famous Latino Romanian band called Mandinga offered to collaborate with me in 2011. I got the opportunity to tour the country. During this time I gained a lot of experience and my confidence as a performer grew. TEMPO: Tell us about your debut single. MUNEER: I'd always envisioned myself as a solo artist. My debut single is called "TURN OFF THE LIGHT." It’s also features Kaan, a Turkish rapper. The single is a sexy love song. The genre is RNB dance, and it is produced by Trucial states from UAE, in collaboration with hahaha production from Romania. TEMPO: Where does your inspiration come from? MUNEER: My inspiration comes from all the best artists out there who made me feel that even I can do something like them. If you want me to be specific, one name is surely Jay Sean. TEMPO: What have been your biggest challenges? MUNEER: It was a big challenge for me to finish medical school and still keep my feet also in for music. It was a big risk for me and there were moments when I felt like quitting,

and there were problems in family and it was a very dark period. But I was positive and strong with lots of patience. Obstacles are part of the game: if there are no obstacles I think there’s no success and motivation. This song was composed almost a year ago - so you can imagine how much time it takes, and also the importance of keeping on the right track. TEMPO: What are your future plans? MUNEER: My future plan for now is to produce more singles, do lots of concerts, and to help educate the UAE music industry about international music standards. I believe that we as UAE nationals can make it in the industry, and that someone has to take a step…so here I am taking that first step. I am looking forward to taking many more steps towards making my dream a reality in 2013.

MUNEER’S WEBSITE: www.muneersworld.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/muneersworld YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/user/ALOBAIDLIMUNIR

www.tempoplanet.com | 23

doc in the house

remixing rumi

Dr. DMS | A doc from the Bronx

Dorian ‘Paul D’ Rogers

PATIENTS FOR MEDICINE (+MEDICINE FOR PATIENTS)

A POET’S TWIST ON THE ANCIENT CLASSICS OF RUMI. PAUL D’ TAKES A CLASSIC POEM AND REMIXES IT FOR A CONTEMPORARY SPIN. Birdsong by Rumi Birdsong brings relief to my longing I'm just as ecstatic as they are, but with nothing to say! Please universal soul, practice some song or something through me!

I have seen this behavior for a long time, here and at home: patients have this idea that seeking medical assistance or advice, is akin to shopping…a transaction so to speak, where you know what you want, you buy it, and then leave with something. Here's how it happens in my “shop:” the patient has a complaint, (s)he speaks with a physician, a diagnosis is formulated, and then the patient leaves with peace of mind. I suspect that the last part of the flow throws you off. Besides the fact that there is a “doctor shopping need for a second opinion culture” here, patients wish to leave the hospital with something tangible. Not a bill, or discharge instructions, but something useful. And it is MEDICATIONS!!! Medications justify the illness, the work note, and the sick role. It’s obvious that medications are so satisfying. When needed, they cure your illness (nature is pretty good at doing this too, just not at a rate convenient for our instant gratification), and medications also tell the world that you must be sick. And therein lies the problem.

To Kill a Mourning Dove By Dorian “Paul D” Rogers They say God gives gone loved ones back through symbols, images, and lucid dreams. Never thought I'd pull the trigger of that weak BB gun my close, distant cousin handed me that one weekend in 1994. I pumped five extra times so I could give that docile-looking bird the good thumping it deserved as it perched on the power line above my grandparents' house. Thought it would thud on the ground after the first fired pellet

Not all ailments require medications. Not all visits to the emergency room are needed. So, if you come to the emergency room, and are deemed (not doomed) to be without a significant illness, what medication is there for that? A glass of water maybe? We should issue a sort of anti- work note… a notice of good health.

but it either was in shock

I for one can’t give medications for illnesses that are not there. I will not give medications for ailments, which do not require medications. Why would I give something that is not necessary? Medications themselves can have unpleasant side effects.

and told me that she thinks of her mother

So please understand that we are not like the mall. You don’t have to leave with “bags of goodies”. Don’t pressure us to give you something just so you can fulfill your “sick role.” Sadly, after doctor shopping, someone will give you what you want. This is poor medicine and it creates unnecessary problems.

or refused to be moved from its hatchlings nearby. Had to hit it three more times before it fell… My mom called years later anytime she sees a small white butterfly. That day she saw one, a patch of God's bed spread, spread across her car windshield like a private message carefully written specifically to asking her to remember that time (fill in fond memory of your mother).

Trust us; we have your best interests at heart. Finally, don’t go directly to the pharmacist to get that unnecessary Augmentin prescription, then get mad at ME when I tell you that it wasn't necessary to begin with, while you suffer that allergic reaction or unrelenting diarrhea…

I listen to her story

Why learn the hard way?

maybe I have already killed the sign of mine.

slightly jealous because I have yet to find my symbol. I get remorseful when I remember that

www.tempoplanet.com | 25

tamakkan

Ian Mason

SEEKING INSIGHT: THE BUSINESS VIRGIN Walking through any of the few decent bookstores in Abu Dhabi, I am amazed by the number of selfhelp books that cram the shelves. It seems that anyone who has lived for 20 minutes has decided to tell everyone else how they should live their lives. Some of these books become best sellers, others seem destined for the bargain bin. But the sheer volume of such books indicates there is a significant market for people needing guidance. No matter where we are in life, we all need some help every so often whether we admit it or not. In a personal crisis, it could be a friend who provides valued support. Or if you are an entrepreneur, especially one starting on the path to success, you might seek a business mentor. When it comes to a mentor, you can have a personal one - someone you know, trust and respect; someone who is on-hand to discuss your challenges – or you can turn to one of the aforementioned self-help books. I am not advocating one over another; they both have their place, and a keen entrepreneur will make good use of both. As the owner of a marketing business in Australia, I had a couple of personal business mentors, particularly in areas where I was not strong, such as accounting. But I also immersed myself in books, and my paperback mentor of choice was Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group. In fact, he still is; I devour anything he writes.

However, I learnt as much about business from Branson’s books as I did about marketing. I have never met him – and perhaps never will - but I would give almost anything for a one-onone session with him. To get him to address a Tamakkan seminar would be one of the great marketing coups of the 21st century, but in the meantime, I’ll have to settle for Twitter.

Being a marketer, I readily identify with Branson’s flair and ability to use his profile to promote his Virgin businesses, embracing even the most completely ridiculous. Indeed, the more outrageous the stunt, such as dressing up as a bride or a flight attendant, the more media coverage he received. Branson understands the value of public relations and has an extremely well-honed view of marketing.

I relate to Branson because his business approach (where the customer is king), his organizational values, his entrepreneurial spirit and, more recently, his philanthropic ventures closely follow my own views and beliefs, and the more I read the many books he has published, the more I admire his attitude. A flick through the chapter headings gives a fair indication of his business philosophy: Just Do It, Have Fun,

26 | www.tempoplanet.com

Be Bold, Challenge Yourself, Value Family and Friends, Have Respect, Do Some Good. And there you have it – Business 101 in just a few words. For a young entrepreneur starting out, you can do a lot worse than to visit the business section of one of those rare good bookstores and see if you can find some Branson insights: if all else fails, try your nearest Virgin Megastore! The titles might be cheeky – ‘Business Stripped Bare’ or ‘Screw It: Let’s Do it’ for example - but I promise that 30 minutes of reading Richard Branson’s words of wisdom will teach you more about practical business success than a year at university.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE WIDEST CIRCULATED YOUTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUSED MAGAZINE IN THE UAE, CALL: 02 491 8624

the planetarians

Emma Kirkman

SAVING OUR ANIMALS It is officially spring. That means nicer weather, plants blooming and generally a time when we all want to be outside enjoying nature as much as possible.

Bu Tinah Island that are vital to the global ecosystem. If you visit the mangroves around Abu Dhabi in a kayak you are guaranteed wildlife sightings up close and personal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just metres away from one of the busiest roads in Abu Dhabi!

For many of us as well we associate spring with new life, with many animals giving birth. I always remember the sight of lambs in the field every spring during my childhood in the country. I see it as a vital time of year for the survival of many species. For many endangered species, each breeding season brings a new sense of hope, and new dangers, to try and grow their population to healthy levels.

Bu Tinah Island is home to one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest population of Dugongs, a large sea mammal that feeds on sea grass. These animals are incredibly sensitive to changes in their habitat, and very vulnerable. They are a spectacular sight to see.

There are many groups in the UAE fighting to protect endangered species that live in the UAE, and to conserve and protect their habitats. The EAD (Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi) is constantly working with other parties to protect areas such as the mangroves and

The Arabian Tahr is another species in the UAE that faces extinction. Whilst breeding programmes have been set up, and monitoring of their numbers is occurring the wild, it is the founding of protected areas such as Wadi Wurrayah in Fujairah that will help to safeguard this amazing species of mountain goat for the future. The EWS-WWF played a key part in the foundation of this protected area, and

it also plays a large role in the continued rehabilitation of turtles throughout the UAE. Every year there are multiple releases of turtles back into the wild. Many are turtles that have previously been caught in fishing nets, or washed up on shore, sick with barnacles attached to their back. Centres have been set up to care and assist the turtles in regaining their strength before being released. Turtles also require protected areas for breeding as they often like to breed on some of our most popular beaches. TDIC close off sections of Saadiyat beach every year to ensure that the turtle eggs are not disturbed and are able to reach the sea easily. The UAE has many animals living in the sand, sea and mountains, and many people and groups are working to protect and promote them. Next time you are in the mountains or mangroves, have a look around and see how many of these creatures you can see. Then think about why it is important to preserve them.

GET ENGAGED. BECOME A PLANETARIAN. www.planetarians.com www.facebook.com/theplanetarians | www.twitter.com/theplanetarians www.tempoplanet.com | 27

MEDIA

MOVING AWAY AND STAYING IN TOUCH By Alma Kadragic

This is probably the last media column for Tempo I’ll be writing in the UAE. My work contract expired on the last day of February, and I’m looking forward to moving back to the US this month. After almost eight years living in Abu Dhabi and the past three working in Dubai, it’s time for a change. Having made the decision, I talked to my good friend Sana Bagersh who edits and publishes Tempo and offered to stop writing this column once I was out of the country. It would be hard to stop because I enjoy the opportunity to look at media subjects and to express my opinions about them. If she wanted me to continue, I said, I could focus on parallels between the UAE and the USA and write about media only when it made sense. As always, Sana was accommodating and said it was up to me what I wrote about although she hoped that the UAE would be included as much as possible. So that’s what I’ll be doing. When I reach Miami where I hope to be living for the next few years, 28 | www.tempoplanet.com

I’ll continue to write about media and draw on my experiences in coming back to Florida where I had lived near Orlando before moving to Abu Dhabi in 2005. Miami is a much bigger city than Orlando and not solely a destination for tourists coming to Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando. Miami is the business center for Latin Americans trying to invest in the US or attract American clients to their own country. It has a major international airport with links to leading cities in Europe and Latin America Etihad and Emirates, please note no airline from the Middle East has direct flights. I’m hoping to find writing and lecturing assignments in journalism, public relations, business, and other areas and will write about how that works in future columns. Meanwhile, last week in Abu Dhabi, I attended the first day of the Ankabut Users Conference at ParisSorbonne and conducted a presentation with my former colleague Dr. Hind Zantout. The topic was Campaigning for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics): The Role of the Media. Hind and I have been working in this area for the past year. Separately, we had considered ways to bring STEM closer to normal people. Four years ago I spoke to an auditorium full of scientists

in Istanbul about the need for communicating what they were doing to the general public, not only to experts. The subject remains alive in the UAE and around the world as Hind pointed out. Although we have yet to see major television programs about science or experts from an area of STEM being interviewed on local talk shows as Hind showed is the case in the UK, some signs of changing mentality can be seen. TDIC published the first issue of the quarterly Abu Dhabi Science, Technology and Innovation Guide in January, listing many STEM-related events for adults and children. Surprisingly, the IDEX show was left out of the schedule, but anyone trying to get an idea of what was available had the information in an A5 pamphlet. During my presentation I referred to the African declaration on science writing announced at a conference in Nairobi last September. The declaration called on “journalists, communicators, universities, civil society, donors and researchers to improve science writing in the continent. “ I suggested that something similar might be done in the Middle East because without improved communication of science in the media, it would be difficult to attract more young people to science careers, secure funding for scientific projects, and make serious progress in innovation.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE WIDEST CIRCULATED YOUTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUSED MAGAZINE IN THE UAE, CALL: 02 491 8624

horoscope

HAOS C : 9 1 2 E L FI hives 2012

Client Arc

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Aries: A co-worker tries to help you with a problem, but creates confusion instead. Don’t get frustrated; it won’t help. Just work together to resolve the problem. Love is in the air at the end of the month. A friend of a friend reveals his or her true feelings for you. Scorpio plays an important role. Taurus: Your tendency to keep quiet pays off in the beginning of the month. A close friend needs to talk and and reveals personal information. Your confidence will be appreciated. When it comes to romance, you’ll have to make a decision. Think about where you stand in that special relationship. Gemini: Be patient at work this month. While your boss may seem too conservative for you, he or she really has your best interests at heart. You need to look out for yourself when it comes to your personal life. It will feel like everyone is against you. Be cautious when making decisions. Cancer: Don’t be the first to volunteer for a new project at work. Wait to see everything that’s involved, because it may be more than you’ve bargained for. However, you should take a chance when it comes to romance. Don’t wait for that intriguing person to ask you out. Make the first move. Leo: Your sympathetic side will be called on early in the month. A loved one needs you to listen and give moral support. Be honest, but caring. Give in your desires and shower yourself in luxury this month. It’s going to be hectic one at work, so you deserve to pamper yourself. Virgo: While you usually like to be alone, working as a team at work this month will make things so much easier. You’ll share a lot of good isdeas and actually make some close friends. Loved ones will rely on you to take care of a family matter. Aquarius is involved. Libra: Seek harmony in the workplace this month. Don’t become involved in an office disagreement. Family matters become hectic this month. Loved ones will look to you for advice and support. Take a deep breath. You’ll be able to help everyone out and still have time for yourself. Scorpio: Follow your instincts in the business world this month. It’s your nature to tell the truth, so stick to it. Don’t be tempted to embellish; it will backfire. Love takes centre stage as the month draws to a close. An old friend will resurface and want to begin a relationship. Follow your heart. Sagittarius: Be frank when a close friend asks your opinion. While the truth may not be what he or she wants to hear, it’s what he or she needs to hear. Your romantic life slows down this month, but don’t get discouraged. This break will give you time to relax and focus on yourself. Capricorn: Now’s your chance to shine at work. You’ll be given the opportunity to lead a new project; your intelligence and efficiency will shine through. Don’t be shy when it comes to meeting new people this month. Your sweet, sensitive side will endear you to someone with a lot of connections. Aquarius: Let your practical side lead you in your decision making as the month begins. It may seem like a good idea to make an impulsive purchase, but don’t do it. Finances will be tight. A relationship moves into high gear when you realize how much you have in common with that special someone. Pisces: Slow down this month, because it will feel as if your entire world is closing on you. A few days off of work will help you relax and time with loved ones will show that you’re still in control of your life. Virgo and Sagittarius play important roles. TO ADVERTISE IN THE WIDEST CIRCULATED YOUTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUSED MAGAZINE IN THE UAE, CALL: 02 491 8624

www.tempoplanet.com | 29

ART

THE COLOUR OF NOW By Ajir Shujahi

'The Colour of Now' is a painting exhibition to be hosted at Café Arabia from March 2 to 14. It represents what meets the eye and what the eye then constructs in the here and now for each of the participating artists. It is a personal expression of style, medium and interpretation.

L-R: Heidi Halls, Panna Taher, Nabeel Khalfan Al Mohairbi, Marian Richardson

NABEEL AL MEHAIRBI Nabeel is a 41 yrs old Emirati artist. He says: my inspiration derives from classical master painters such as, JMW Turner, John Constable, and artists from the Impressionist period. My artistic focus is mainly driven by the portraits and landscapes that I enjoy creating; making artwork is a continuous path of learning and developing one's artistic skills.

On opening night all the artists would be present to meet the public and to discuss their work, and for the remaining days one artist will be on hand in the afternoon to meet buyers. The four artists are Panna Taher, Heidi Halls, Nabeel Khalfan Al Mohairibi and Marian Richardson. An opening reception will be held on Thursday 7th March at 7pm. Exhibition opening hours are 7am-11pm

THE ORGANISER: MARIAN RICHARDSON Marian is the organizer of the event, and also participating artist. She graduated from the Institute Of Art Design And Technology Dublin, Ireland with first class honours in Visual Arts Practice in 2008. Exhibited in Ireland and Abu Dhabi. Her work is in public and private collections in Ireland and in private collections in England, Canada, The Netherlands and the U.A.E.

“Lush City” painted by Marian Richardson.

“Arabian Horse” painted by Nabeel Khalfan Al Mohairbi

HEIDI HALLS Heidi is a 37-year-old Briton. She says: my intricate silk paintings draw inspiration from Arabian geometric patterns and traditional Eastern textile techniques. I paint using a rich palette of colours such as aged olive and rustic sienna combined with delicate details of gold and copper so prevalent with the region. My focus when creating each hand-crafted piece is to produce a unique textile that has the feel of a delicate and treasured antique.

PANNA TAHER The 38 British painter is inspired by “my local landscapes, different cultures and my travels”. She says that there are two facets to her work: landscapes and Arabic calligraphy. “My artistic focus is to produce vibrant, beautiful work which evokes the senses. Each piece has a contemporary approach playing with colour and light, thus creating paintings with depth and harmony.”

“SUZANI PINK - Carmine” painted by Heidi Halls

“Rabbi Yassir Study 1” painted by Panna Taher.

The 58-year-old Irish painter says her inspiration is images of daily life and overheard snippets of conversations. She says: “My work relates to issues of interconnection and transformation”. 30 | www.tempoplanet.com